The program will connect youth from the area's underserved communities to unique and historic New York State Parks in Central New York.

Ladders to the Outdoors is a community outreach program funded by The Gifford Foundation, Central New York Community Foundation, and United Way of Central New York operated in partnership with New York State Parks and the Natural Heritage Trust. The program will connect youth from the area's underserved communities to unique and historic New York State Parks in Central New York. Ladders to the Outdoors will work closely with school districts, corporate partners, and the many local youth organizations to offer outdoor programming and recreational activities to help connect kids with state parks, outdoor recreation and nature, and foster a lifelong love of the outdoors.